What Makes Songs Memorable? with Megan Burtt

Adult Group Class / Songwriting Program

Why do some songs stay with us for years after just one listen? What makes a lyric hit home, a melody stick in your head, or a chorus feel impossible not to sing along to?

In this interactive songwriting workshop, award-winning songwriter and educator Megan Burtt explores the key elements that make songs resonate with listeners. Perfect for beginners as well as more experienced writers looking to strengthen their craft, this class breaks down the building blocks of memorable songwriting in an approachable, inspiring way.

For All Levels — Including Beginner Songwriters

Students will explore:
- The power of repetition and melodic hooks
- Why simplicity is often more effective than complexity
- Creating strong song structure and momentum
- The emotional and musical moments listeners remember most

Through listening examples, guided exercises, and discussion, participants will leave with practical tools to make their songs more impactful, engaging, and memorable — while developing greater confidence in their own creative voice.

Songwriter, performer, and educator Megan Burtt is an award-winning songwriter known for her emotionally resonant lyrics, soulful voice, and strong storytelling. A graduate of Berklee College of Music with a degree in songwriting, she has built a multifaceted career as both an artist and educator. Megan has taught private songwriting lessons, served as a songwriting instructor at the University of Colorado Denver Music Department, and has been a guest lecturer at Metropolitan State University of Denver and Song School at the Rocky Mountain Folks Festival.

Her songwriting has earned national recognition, including wins and finalist placements in major competitions such as the Kerrville New Folk Competition, Mountain NewSong Competition, Songwriter Serenade Competition, and the Great American Song Contest, as well as recognition from the Westword Music Awards. Drawing from years of touring, performing, and teaching, Megan helps songwriters of all levels develop their craft, strengthen their lyrical voice, and write songs that connect deeply and authentically.

Megan is equally poised and powerful performing on a festival stage or teaching the art of songwriting in a workshop setting. It’s been wonderful to be part of Megan’s evolution as an artist, from when she initially won our Songwriter Showcase many years ago to her most recent performance and workshop at the Folks Festival in 2022. ~ Steve Szymanski, co-founder, Planet Bluegrass

“She’s got prosody running through her bloodstream” - Pat Pattison 

“There is a wonderful uniqueness when listening to Megan Burtt, from her purposeful lyrics that invite you to pay attention to the story she is telling to her melodic delivery of those lyrics that make you glad that you did. Listen and enjoy…as often as you can.”  -Bobby Rymer, Writer's Den Music Publishing, Nashville, TN